Have A Cough That Won’t Go Away? Here’s Why
Coughs are a natural reflex that helps clear irritants and mucus from our airways. Most of the time, a cough that comes with a cold or flu will go away within a few weeks. But what if that cough just won’t quit? If you’ve been battling a cough that seems to linger, there could be several reasons why.
What are Persistent Coughs?
A cough that lasts for more than eight weeks is considered a chronic or persistent cough. This type of cough can be frustrating, disruptive to your daily life, and even a sign of an underlying health issue. Here are some of the most common causes of persistent coughs:
- Postnasal drip: One of the most frequent causes of a chronic cough is postnasal drip. This happens when excess mucus builds up in the back of your nose and drips down your throat, triggering a cough reflex. Allergies, sinus infections, and even certain medications can cause postnasal drip.
- Asthma: Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways. A persistent cough, especially one that gets worse at night or with exercise, can be a key sign of asthma. Other symptoms may include wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
- Acid Reflux (GERD): Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and sometimes a cough. This cough is often worse after meals or when lying down.
- Infections: While most coughs related to colds and flu clear up on their own, sometimes lingering infections can cause a persistent cough. Pneumonia, bronchitis, and even lingering effects of a COVID-19 infection could be culprits.
- Medications: Certain medications, particularly those in the class of blood pressure medications called ACE inhibitors, are known to cause a dry cough as a side effect.
- Environmental irritants: Prolonged exposure to smoke, dust, fumes, or other irritants can trigger a chronic cough.
Here are some less common but important causes of chronic cough:
- Whooping cough (pertussis): This highly contagious bacterial infection can cause violent coughing fits and tends to linger.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): COPD is a group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that can make it difficult to breathe and cause a chronic cough.
- Lung cancer: In rarer cases, a persistent cough may be an early sign of lung cancer.
When to See a Doctor
It’s usually best to see a doctor for a cough that won’t go away, especially if you experience any of the following:
- Cough lasting more than 8 weeks
- Fever
- Coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Unintentional weight loss
- Chest pain
Your doctor will take a detailed medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order tests such as a chest X-ray or lung function test. This will help pinpoint the underlying cause of your cough and determine the best course of treatment.
Treating Chronic Cough
Treatment for a chronic cough depends on the underlying cause. Here’s a brief overview of some treatment options:
- Postnasal drip: Over-the-counter decongestants, antihistamines, or nasal sprays can help manage postnasal drip.
- Asthma: Inhaled medications like bronchodilators and corticosteroids are the mainstay of asthma treatment.
- Acid Reflux (GERD): Lifestyle changes, antacids, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can control acid reflux.
- Infections: Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if a lingering bacterial infection is suspected.
- Medications: If a medication is causing your cough, your doctor might switch you to a different one.
Home Remedies for Long-lasting Cough
In addition to medical treatment, you can try these home remedies to ease your cough:
- Use a humidifier
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Get enough rest
- Soothe your throat with honey or lozenges
- Consider over-the-counter cough suppressants (use as directed)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is too long for a cough? Generally, a cough lasting more than eight weeks warrants a visit to the doctor.
2. I’ve had a cough for weeks. Could it be COVID-19? While a persistent cough can sometimes be a sign of lingering effects from COVID-19, it’s important to consider other potential causes as well. If you’re concerned about ‘long COVID’, consult your doctor for assessment.
2. Could my persistent cough be a sign of something serious? In most cases, persistent coughs are not caused by serious conditions. However, see a doctor if you have any concerning symptoms along with your cough.
In short, a lingering cough can be a source of annoyance, but it’s usually treatable. If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor to find the cause and get the relief you need.
